"I have seen a change in how young people are willing to disclose about their mental health struggles," she said.

On Jan. 25 the principal of Rowe Middle School sent a disturbing email to parents. He said an ambulance took two children to the hospital after they apparently tried to kill themselves. Fortunately, the kids survived and the principal said all students were given access to counselors.

"Middle school is hard for a lot of people," said Trombetta, whose group is focused on preventing suicide and substance abuse.

It does that in part by running 24-hour crisis lines. It also runs a special YouthLine open daily from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

"We have a mental health system that arguably doesn't work very well," explained Trombetta.

And she said she and other Lines for Life staff members find that young people are increasingly isolated, spending more and more time alone in their rooms.

"It's sort of this whole secret life that a lot of young people have right now using technology," Trombetta said. "You may have a lot of friends or you may know a lot of people or you may have a lot of followers on your Instagram account but you feel more isolated than ever."

Trombetta also said the problem is due in part to the economy.

"Kids are left home alone more, parents aren't just working at work, they're working at home," she said. "They're constantly distracted on their own phones and their own devices."

Trombetta said adults can help by asking questions and being non-judgmental.

"If you notice that their mood has changed, that their group of friends has changed, that they are spending more time alone maybe with the door closed, that maybe they're crying more than usual, maybe they're having a hard time sleeping, maybe they're stressing out and telling you how much they hate everybody. That would be a time to pause and without criticism wonder, 'What's going on for you?'" she explained.

Trombetta said don't be afraid to ask someone in crisis if they're thinking of killing themselves. Often, she said it's a relief for them to talk about it.

If you or a young person you know is suicidal, consult a professional counselor or call Lines for Life's YouthLine at 1-877-968-8491. You can also text teen2teen to 839863 and help is available at their website, Oregonyouthline.org.

Help by phone is available 24-hours-a day. And Trombetta said teens supervised by a masters-level clinician take calls and texts from 4 to 10 p.m.